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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 52 (1968)

Issue: 3. (March)

First Page: 527

Last Page: 527

Title: Sespe Formation--Example of Arid Climate Redbed: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Ronald C. Flemal

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

Examination of sedimentological aspects of the Sespe Formation, a late eocene to early Miocene redbed unit of southern California, indicates that the formation was deposited under generally arid conditions. Evidence for this interpretation includes: (1) presence of arid-climate sedimentary features; (2) absence of intense weathering products among the detrital mineral suite, including the feldspars, ferro-magnesium minerals, iron oxides, and clay minerals; and (3) presence of an evaporite mineralogical suite including gypsum, borate minerals, and "corrensite," and abnormal formation-water content.

Although at variance with earlier interpretations based on scanty faunal remains and the primary detrital model of redbed sedimentation, arid conditions of Sespe deposition can be reconciled readily into a consistent regional climatic picture.

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Copyright 1997 American Association of Petroleum Geologists